Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that will steal the show at your next family gathering, then you need to try Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes. This recipe has been a staple in my family for years, and every time I make it, I’m reminded of cozy dinners filled with laughter and love. The creamy sauce and three types of cheese come together to create a dish that is simply irresistible—perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike!

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a cheesy delight that everyone will rave about. Trust me, once you taste these au gratin potatoes, you’ll want to add them to your regular meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Cheesy: Three types of cheese create a rich, creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with any main dish.
• Easy Preparation: This recipe is simple enough for even beginner cooks to tackle with confidence!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this cheesy comfort food.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weekday dinner, these au gratin potatoes fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dish ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Everything you need can be found at your local grocery store, making it easy to bring Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes to your table.

For the Potatoes

• 6-7 medium yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced into 1/8th inch rounds (about 3 pounds)
• ½ white or yellow onion, cut into slices

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• ¼ cup all purpose flour (you can use whole wheat or gluten-free flour as well)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk)
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 heaping cups)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper

For Topping

• ½ cup gruyere cheese (or substitute with more sharp cheddar)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan

To Garnish

• Fresh chopped parsley

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to put your own spin on these au gratin potatoes with any of the following ideas:

• Add Veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Change the Cheese: Mix it up by incorporating different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor.

How to Make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. This ensures your au gratin potatoes bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden crust we all love.

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes and Onions

Next, take those beautifully sliced yukon gold potatoes and arrange them in three tight slanted rows in a greased baking dish. Don’t pack them too tightly; they should be slightly slanted. Sprinkle the onion slices between the potato rows wherever they fit. This layering not only adds flavor but also makes for an eye-catching presentation!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Now it’s sauce time! Melt butter over medium heat in a saucepan. Gradually whisk in the flour, followed by the almond milk—this helps avoid lumps. As you bring this mixture to a simmer, you’re creating a luscious base that will envelop those potatoes in creamy goodness.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Once simmering, lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Give it a taste! This step allows you to adjust seasoning according to your preference—because we all have different tastes!

Step 5: Pour Over Potatoes

Pour this cheesy sauce evenly over your layered potatoes and onions. Don’t fret if everything looks messy; trust me, it will transform into pure magic while baking!

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and pop it into the oven for 45 minutes. Covering helps steam the potatoes so they cook through without drying out.

Step 7: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil—watch out for steam! Sprinkle gruyere cheese and parmesan over the top, then return it back to bake uncovered for another 30-45 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when you can easily pierce through the middle with a fork.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Finally, take out those delicious au gratin potatoes from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy each creamy bite as it brings warmth and joy to your meal!

Pro Tips for Making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Making the perfect au gratin potatoes is all about those little details that elevate the dish to a whole new level!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal because they’re creamy and maintain their shape well during baking, providing a perfect texture in every bite.
• Slice evenly: Ensure your potato slices are uniform in thickness (1/8th inch) so they cook evenly. This helps prevent some pieces from becoming mushy while others are undercooked.
• Whisk vigorously: When making the sauce, whisking vigorously while adding the milk and flour helps to create a smooth consistency without lumps. This ensures a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the potatoes.
• Don’t skip the foil: Covering the dish with foil while it bakes initially traps steam, allowing the potatoes to cook through before getting that delicious golden crust on top.
• Let it rest: Allowing your dish to sit for 10-15 minutes after baking will help it set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors as they meld together.

How to Serve Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Presentation can make all the difference when serving this delightful dish! Here are some ideas to make your au gratin potatoes truly shine on the table.

Garnishes

• Fresh chopped parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant parsley adds color and freshness, balancing the richness of the cheese.
• Cracked black pepper: A few cracks of fresh black pepper on top not only add flavor but also give a touch of sophistication.
• Extra cheese: If you’re feeling indulgent, a dusting of additional shredded cheese right before serving can create a melty, gooey finish.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts complements the creamy richness of au gratin potatoes beautifully, creating a balanced plate.
• Garlic Butter Green Beans: These tender green beans tossed in garlic butter add a fresh crunch and vibrant color that pairs perfectly with cheesy dishes.
• Herb-Seasoned Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and veggies provides a nutritious contrast to the heaviness of au gratin, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu Skewers: For added protein, serve with flavorful chicken or tofu skewers marinated in your favorite spices. They’ll add heartiness without overpowering your delicious potatoes.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, you’ll make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes a centerpiece worthy of any gathering! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the au gratin potatoes ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Here are some practical tips for storing and reheating your delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Once cooled, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you have leftover sauce, store it separately to keep the potatoes from getting soggy.

Freezing

• Allow the au gratin potatoes to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. For best results, label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Cover with foil and bake for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• If desired, uncover during the last 10 minutes to crisp up the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes.

Can I use other types of cheese in Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and gruyere are delicious choices, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique flavor twist.

How do I know when my au gratin potatoes are done?

Your Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are done when they are golden brown on top and a fork easily pierces through the center of the potato layers.

Can I make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute all dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives. Use vegan butter, almond milk, and dairy-free cheese to create a creamy and satisfying version.

What can I serve with Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

These cheesy potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes as much as my family does! This recipe brings warmth and comfort to any table, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. It’s easy to prepare and filled with cheesy goodness that will leave everyone wanting more. Don’t hesitate to try it out; I’d love to hear how yours turns out!